Gil Dikman, Carmel Gat's cousin, said in a statement by the hostages' families outside the Kirya's Begin Gate in Tel Aviv that "We are warning the people of Israel, the government, the cabinet and security officials - if you conquer Gaza, you will knowingly lead to the murder of hostages. The blood of the hostages will be on your hands." According to him, "A black flag flew over the order to enter Rafah. The order to conquer Gaza is also a death sentence for the hostages. We call on the security establishment, the IDF Chief of Staff and the negotiation team: An illegal order kills the hostages. Do not participate in the conquest of Gaza at the expense of the male and female hostages."

